kakalistiq.com reports that a historic moment took center stage in Epe Federal Constituency on Thursday, August 21, 2025, as three newly built schools in Oko-Abe (Epe LGA), Ilege (Lekki LCDA), and Owu-Ikosi (Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA) were declared open in a grand ceremony that drew top government officials, traditional rulers, political leaders, and community stakeholders.
Representing the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, described the schools as more than just physical structures.
“These new buildings are more than just bricks and mortar; they are sanctuaries for learning. They represent our commitment to providing a safe and conducive environment for learning, free from overcrowding and distractions. These classrooms are a promise, a promise that their futures matter to us,” he said.
He reminded teachers and administrators that “a building alone does not make a school; it is the spirit within its walls that truly matters. These gifts are tools, please use them to inspire and build the next generation of Nigerians.”
Turning to students, the Deputy Governor encouraged them to seize the opportunity:
“This is the harbor of early knowledge, built with your future in mind. Please study hard, be disciplined, and aim for excellence in all you do. To whom much is given, much is expected, make us proud.”
On his part, Rep. Wale Raji emphasized that the projects were proof of responsive leadership.
“We have decided to change the narrative. Before now, the allegations leveled against politicians are that they only show up to remote communities and riverine areas during electioneering campaign periods and after getting the votes, they’re nowhere to be found, not to talk of bringing the dividends of democracy to them. But the narrative has changed. During the election, we came here to campaign for votes, and you cast your votes for our party, and what we’re witnessing today is a confirmation that we’re trustworthy as a party, and this will not be the first intervention that we will embark on in this ward,” he declared.
Highlighting his past and ongoing interventions, Raji noted projects such as solar street lights, bridges to end perennial flooding, new classrooms at Oriba Primary School, jetties, roads, and vocational centers. He added: “When schools are opened, gates to a prison are closed.”
At Ilege, he reminded the community of their long-demanded needs now fulfilled:
“You challenged me then, and I’m happy that I didn’t disappoint you. Request for transformers, Solar-Powered Borehole, and a network of roads. And to crown it all, we have been able to establish a new secondary school in Ilege.”
Speaking at Owu-Ikosi, he underscored the importance of preparing children for tomorrow:
“Education is very important, and if we do not make adequate provision for our children, we are endangering their future. But with this, we’re preparing them for the challenges of the future.”
The event was graced by dignitaries, including Lagos APC GAC Member, Alhaji Akanni Seriki Bamu (represented by Hon. Ahmed Seriki), Rep. Bayo Balogun, Hon. Adebola Shabi, Alhaja Azeezat Raji, Princess Surah Animashaun (represented by Hon. Sikiru Owolomoshe), Otunba Wale Anomo, Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali, Hon. Ismail Akinloye and Dr. Idowu Oyetola.
Royal fathers also turned out in full force: HRM Oba Taiwo Gbadamosi (Onito-Omu of Ito-Omu), HRM Oba Babatunde Asumo (Alayandelu of Odo-Ayandelu), HRM Oba Nelson Ogunlari (Olowu of Owu-Ikosi), HRM Oba Elias Omoloro (Olota of Ota-Ikosi), HRM Oba Nureni Alugbin (Oniladaba of Ladaba), HRM Oba Adeleke Akibu (Onilepia of Lepia), alongside the Baales of Oko-Abe and Ilege.
They hailed the initiative as a turning point for education in the Epe Division.
Concluding, Dr. Hamzat commended Raji’s commitment:
“This is representation in another great form. Indeed, you’ve done well, my brother. I am optimistic that the future is bright for our students.”
